Pulis denies exit talk

Pulis' future has been the subject of growing speculation in recent weeks, with one story surfacing on Thursday claiming that he will end his seven-year spell in charge at the Britannia Stadium as soon as Stoke are mathematically sure of avoiding relegation to the Championship.

The 55-year-old has been frustrated by talk concerning his future at the club as well as reports hinting at problems with senior figures behind the scenes.

Pulis has always retained the strong support of owner Peter Coates and had lunch with his chairman earlier this week. The Potters boss, though, insists there was no mention of the possibility of him departing the Britannia.

Privately Pulis, Coates and the club's chief executive Tony Scholes have all stated that they expect the Welshman to still be in charge next season.

Despite being fully focused on his bid to keep Stoke in the Premier League, Pulis felt he had to respond to the latest rumours regarding his position as manager.

"It's just speculation. The thing with that is they have the right to write what they want and I have to accept that," Pulis said. "I had lunch with Peter and his brother-in-law on Tuesday and they never mentioned about whether I was leaving or not.

"You are always questioning yourself. But if you are asking me if I am happy at this club. I am always happy at this football club. It is a fantastic club. I have so much respect for the Coates family and my respect would go a lot further than having something sorted out and then just closing the door and walking away."

Pulis accepted results had been poor in 2013, but added: "After seven years we haven't done too bad. Do you get judged over three bad months, or over a period of time?

"But I'm experienced enough to know that if you don't get results there's going to be pressure on you. But I'm big enough to deal with that."